There’s 1 drink you should skip before your interview

So you finally landed an interview for your dream job.

You’ve spent the last few days agonizing over what to wear, prepping for any curveball questions, and you’re ready to impress, but what about breakfast?

In the current COVID-era job market, interviews have been shaken up quite a bit. You may find yourself sitting in your home office, trying to make the most out of a glitchy internet connection, children screaming in the background, and the neighbor’s dog barking non-stop.

There are many new issues to be focused on when you’re getting ready to interview for a new job, but you have forgotten one of the most important aspects of your interview, what you eat and drink before the interview. 

Breakfast is one of the most important meals of the day, and it’s undoubtedly an important aspect of getting your A-game on before an interview.

If you have a morning interview, you should stick to your typical routine. Eat the same meal you eat every morning, and don’t get adventurous with heartburn inducing breakfast burritos or something you’ve never had before. 

The last thing you want to deal with is an upset stomach when nerves are already at play. 

What’s wrong with coffee?

Surprisingly, most people think that coffee is the right choice before an interview. It gives you a boost of energy and makes you feel more alert, but it comes with its own risks.

You might feel inclined to drink more coffee than you usually do before an interview, and you really shouldn’t. Drinking more coffee is going to make you jittery. 

Not to mention, if you happen to have an in-person interview, drinking coffee in the car is going to open you up to a big risk. What if you hit the brake a little too hard and spill coffee all over your clothes? You don’t need the stress of an impromptu wardrobe change and having to deal with ruined clothes as you head into an interview.

Coffee is a stimulant, and if you drink a little too much, you may find your anxiety increasing, as well as your heart rate. As pointed out, you might get jittery and misspeak or flub up your interview. The last thing you want is to lose out on a job opportunity because of an ill-fated cup of coffee.

Here’s what you should eat before a job interview:

If the interview is between breakfast and lunch, you don’t want to arrive hungry. Find yourself a quick snack to stave off hunger. Try a banana, a handful of nuts, or a cup of yogurt to put something in your stomach.

Try not to eat anything sugary before your interview. Don’t stop at Starbucks for a pastry or pick up a muffin in the waiting room before the interview. The last thing you want is a blood sugar crash when that quick energy wears off. 

If you’re looking for a coffee alternative, try brewing a cup of green tea (or picking up an ice-cold bottle!). Green tea is full of natural antioxidants, and it comes with a low dose of caffeine and L-theanine, which will help calm your nerves.

Bottom line

Before an interview, many people focus on preparing for unexpected questions about their resume while overlooking one of the most important aspects of interview prep.

You’re going to excel at the interview if you give your body the necessary fuel to function. Focus on a well balanced and familiar breakfast, followed up with a nutrient snack to keep yourself from suffering from a growling stomach during the interview. 

Just because interviews have changed doesn’t mean you should overlook this vital part of your day. Even from the comfort of your own home, you shouldn’t skip having a healthy breakfast to keep you energized. Don’t forget to stay hydrated, just not too hydrated.